Researchers in Denmark have unveiled a new form of living cement capable of storing and releasing energy within the structure itself. This innovation could transform sustainable construction by embedding energy storage directly into buildings. It raises vital questions about embodied carbon in materials and the wider carbon footprint of construction. While still experimental, the breakthrough points towards net zero Whole Life Carbon solutions where buildings act as both shelters and energy assets.

A key example of sustainable retrofit has emerged in Glasgow, where a historic whisky headquarters has been repurposed into serviced apartments. This project demonstrates how sustainable building design can retain cultural identity while contributing to Whole Life Carbon reduction. By preserving existing structures instead of demolishing and rebuilding, such work enhances the environmental sustainability in construction and strengthens Circular Economy in construction strategies. It highlights the role of eco-friendly construction and sustainable building practices in reducing embodied carbon.

Debate has intensified following the approval of Gatwick Airport’s expansion, with sustainability experts questioning the project’s alignment with national climate goals. The decision raises wider concerns about the environmental impact of construction linked to infrastructure projects of this scale. A Whole Life Carbon Assessment of airport growth reveals contradictions against the ambition of net zero carbon buildings and carbon neutral construction. The case underscores the need for Life Cycle Costing in construction when assessing national infrastructure planning.

Efforts to decarbonise industrial energy highlight important lessons for the construction sector. Kimberly-Clark’s adoption of green hydrogen boilers illustrates how large-scale manufacturers can significantly reduce carbon emissions. Such shifts have strong implications for building lifecycle performance and the supply of low carbon construction materials. Industry-wide adoption of similar innovations could transform the environmental impact of construction supply chains, lowering embodied carbon and driving a move towards renewable building materials.

Verification of raw mineral supply chains is gaining traction in Australia, with new technology ensuring materials trace back to their origin. This has direct relevance for green building materials, sustainable material specification and environmental product declarations (EPDs). Transparent sourcing strengthens sustainable construction strategies and supports Whole Life Carbon Assessment standards for eco-design for buildings. Traceability ties directly to resource efficiency in construction and enables more effective Circular Economy construction strategies.

Even small improvements outside traditional construction reflect changing values. The introduction of recyclable toothpaste tubes across the UK mirrors the principles of a Circular Economy. Though minor compared to infrastructure, this shift reminds the sector of the importance of end-of-life reuse in construction and reducing the environmental impact of everyday materials. These actions, combined with broader low carbon design practices, reinforce the global push towards decarbonising the built environment.